Mental Side Effects of Benzodiazepines

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Mental Side Effects of Benzodiazepines

Question:

I have read that one cause of dementia can be an "adverse reaction to medication." Has Xanax been known to cause dementia?

Answer

No, although it can cause symptoms that look like dementia.

Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam. It belongs in the benzodiazepine drug class that includes diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan). All cause sedation and decreased alertness.

Dementia is a brain disorder. People with it have difficulty processing and understanding information. Dementia has many causes, including Alzheimer's disease and circulatory problems.

Many drugs, such as Xanax, can cause symptoms similar to dementia. People may be confused and have difficulty thinking. So it is important for doctors to identify people having these reactions. The "dementia-like" symptoms may go away if the medication is stopped.

In some cases, people with severe drug reactions may have delirium, with severe and dangerous confusion. However, benzodiazepines, including alprazolam (Xanax), have not been associated with actual dementia.

Last updated:	July 20, 2009